Definition: HDMI

(High-Definition Multimedia Interface) A very popular digital interface for audio and video that provides a single-cable solution for connecting a computer to a monitor. HDMI is also widely used to connect home theater equipment such as TVs, Blu-ray/DVD players, cable boxes and Apple and Roku media hubs. Introduced in 2002, one HDMI cable took the place of nine different analog audio and video cables.

HDMI supports eight channels of 24-bit uncompressed audio at 192kHz and up to 12K video as of HDMI 2.2. HDMI also provides copy protection, A/V equipment control, 5 volts of power and compatibility with DVI and DisplayPort interfaces.

HDMI Specifications
See HDMI versions and HDMI cable types. For HDMI copy protection, see HDCP. For A/V control, see HDMI CEC. For DVI compatibility, see HDMI-DVI compatibility. To turn a TV into a home theater hub, see HDMI ARC.

Common 19-Pin Connectors

Type A is for TVs, home theater equipment and monitors, while camcorders use Type C and D. A more secure Type E is used in vehicles, and a 29-pin Type B supports dual-link DVI resolution (see DVI).

HDMI vs. All the Others

This earlier Roku streaming hub was on the market during the transition stage from analog to digital TV. See A/V ports.

An HDMI Switch

This HDMI switch lets three HDMI sources plug into a TV with only one HDMI input. See HDMI switch. (Image courtesy of Oppo Digital, Inc.)